Fearing hostile reaction against Trump, US Open orders broadcasters to censor boos during Sinner-Alcaraz final

The tennis community is buzzing ahead of the US Open men’s singles final, and it’s not just in anticipation of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz facing each other for the third consecutive time in a Grand Slam final this year. US President Donald Trump, after all, is among those who will be in attendance for Sunday’s final at the Arthur Ashe Stadium at Flushing Meadows to watch two of the world’s top-ranked players battle it out yet again this year.

Though he had won the 2024 Presidential Election by a landslide against Democratic Party’s Kamala Harris to earn himself a second term in the White House, Trump isn’t doing too well on the popularity ratings at the moment. The Trump administration, after all, has been facing a barrage of criticism for their foreign policy, particularly with their reciprocal tariffs, as well as their anti-immigration drive on home soil.

The US President, thus, might not feel the most welcome when sits in the Rolex Suite as a guest of the Swiss watchmaker. And anticipating hostile reactions from the crowd for the 79-year-old in what is a ‘Blue State’, the organisers as well as the broadcasters are leaving no stone unturned to ensure no negative reaction makes it to the live telecast.

USTA explains the reason behind censorship of anti-Trump reactions

Ahead of the US Open final, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) has asked broadcasters to “refrain from showcasing any disruptions or reactions” whenever President Trump appears on screen during the course of the final.

“We regularly ask our broadcasters to refrain from showcasing off-court disruptions,” read a statement from the USTA ahead of the final.

Also Read | ‘About to face the loudest boos’: Trump’s attendance in US Open final sparks outrage online

Trump, who was born and raised in the Queens borough of New York City, is expected to be highlighted during the anthem ceremony ahead of start of play, with the telecast expected to cut to him from time to time for reactions during the match.

In addition to censoring boos on the live broadcast, the organisers have also put additional security measures in place for Sunday’s final.

Trump used to be a regular at the US Open, but has not attended the tournament since he was booed by the crowd in 2015 shortly after announcing his first presidential campaign.